Arroz con leche, or rice with milk, is a beloved Mexican dessert that captures the essence of comfort food. This creamy rice pudding is sweetened with condensed milk and flavored with cinnamon, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served warm or chilled, arroz con leche is a dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth, often enjoyed by families across generations.
The Heart of Arroz con Leche
The beauty of arroz con leche lies in its simplicity. Made with just a few basic ingredients—rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon—it’s an excellent example of how humble components can come together to create something truly special. The addition of sweetened condensed milk elevates the dish, providing a rich creaminess that traditional recipes may lack.
Ingredients
To make a classic arroz con leche, you will need:
1 cup long-grain rice
4 cups water
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
Ground cinnamon for garnish
Optional: Raisins or nuts for added texture
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too sticky.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and the cinnamon stick.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the water is absorbed.
Step 2: Add Milk and Sweeteners
Once the rice is cooked, remove the cinnamon stick and add the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract to the pot.
Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 3: Thicken the Pudding
Continue to cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The mixture should thicken and become creamy.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook it longer; if you like it creamier, remove it from heat sooner.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once your arroz con leche reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat.
Serve warm or chilled in individual bowls or cups. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon on top for garnish.
Optionally, add raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Enjoying Arroz con Leche
Arroz con leche can be enjoyed as a comforting dessert after any meal or as a sweet breakfast treat. Its versatility allows it to be served warm in cooler months or chilled during hot summer days.
Tips for Success
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.
Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Classic arroz con leche is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that brings back memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Its creamy texture and sweet cinnamon flavor make it irresistible to anyone who tries it. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing it with loved ones, this traditional Mexican rice pudding is sure to delight!